Love, resilience, and a wagging tail—these are the ingredients that have made Toronto photographer Jack Jackson’s work not just iconic, but deeply moving. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a simple portrait truly capture the transformative power of love between a queer individual and their rescue dog? Jackson thinks so, and he’s doubling down on this belief with the opening of his new Leslieville studio, where he aims to revive his acclaimed Rescued by Love project. This isn’t just about snapping photos; it’s about telling stories that heal, inspire, and challenge societal norms.
For over six years, Jackson has been the go-to photographer for Toronto’s most beloved pups and their owners, crafting portraits that stand out for their wide angles, playful energy, and vibrant skies. But his work goes beyond aesthetics. Rescued by Love is a labor of love—literally. Inspired by his own life-changing bond with his rescue dog, Jet, the project documents the profound connections between 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and their furry companions. Think Humans of New York, but with queer narratives and adorable dogs stealing the spotlight.
And this is the part most people miss: Jackson’s approach is deeply intentional. He doesn’t just take pictures; he creates safe spaces for his subjects, many of whom are women and gay men, to feel seen and celebrated. ‘I want to make them look and feel fantastic,’ he says, acknowledging the unique pressures queer individuals often face. This care-based practice extends to his project sessions, where he collaborates closely with clients to tell their stories authentically. ‘It’s about their journey, their struggles, and how their rescue dog became their lifeline,’ he explains.
The project’s roots are personal. After immigrating to Toronto from the UK and facing significant challenges, Jet became Jackson’s anchor. She inspired him to start a dog-walking business, providing structure and purpose during a time of isolation. ‘As queer people, we don’t always have traditional family structures,’ he reflects. ‘Sometimes, our dogs become our family, our reason to get up in the morning.’ This realization sparked Rescued by Love, a project that highlights how both humans and dogs thrive when given love, safety, and support.
But sustainability has been a hurdle. After a hiatus due to the project’s demanding nature, Jackson is now seeking partnerships to relaunch it. ‘I don’t want this to be a fleeting project,’ he says. ‘I want it to continue making an impact.’ With past sponsors like Pet Value and shoots across Canada, the UK, and Australia, the potential is undeniable. Funding would allow him to scout locations, engage deeply with participants, and involve an assistant—all essential for capturing these powerful stories.
As Jackson prepares for the soft launch of his new studio on December 1, the question lingers: Can a photograph truly change lives? For those who’ve been part of Rescued by Love, the answer is a resounding yes. But what do you think? Is there untapped power in these portraits, or is Jackson’s vision too idealistic? Let’s spark a conversation—share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you’re ready to be part of this movement, reach out to Jackson and help him write the next chapter of Rescued by Love.
